Piano Performance

Topics in Piano Performance explores many dimensions of piano performance, and focuses on different special topics each semester, made explicit by a decimalization of the course number, and the special topic designation as part of the course title. In addition to focusing on study of repertoire in a masterclass format, potential topics include performance practice associated with different eras in music, exploration of particular genres, issues surrounding public performance and memorization, improvisation in different styles, composition for the piano, sight-reading and score reading, collaborative piano, performance techniques for 20th and 21st century music, and jazz. Exact topics will vary each semester depending on student needs and interest. The class may be taken up to 4 times for credit.

The class is open to all music majors whose primary instrument is piano, and to non-music majors by permission of the instructor. Class topics culminate in a Final Performance Project in Lang Hall, usually focusing on works of a particular composer and/or genre, or a topic era, such as improvisation or collaborative piano. Some examples from past and future semesters include Scriabin’s Preludes and Etudes, Shostakovich Preludes & Fugues, Mendelssohn’s Songs Without Words, Bartók’s Mikrokosmos (Vols. 4-6), Debussy’s Preludes, Schubert’s Winterreise (the entire song cycle, with each pianist performing 1-2 songs, accompanying M.A. Voice Majors) and Cage’s Sonatas and Interludes for Prepared Piano.

Auditions for non-piano majors are held just prior to and throughout the registration periods preceding the semester in which the class is offered. Students should be prepared to play at least one work, or substantial movement of a work. For more information, please contact Prof. Geoffrey Burleson.

This course will explore many dimensions of collaborative piano preparation, rehearsal and performance. In addition to performance and study of repertoire in a masterclass format, topics will include performance practice associated with different eras, exploration of particular genres, issues surrounding public performance and presentation, vocal coaching, sight-reading, ensemble/orchestral reductions (including SATB scores), transposition, and readking lead sheets.

THE ART OF COLLABORATIVE PIANO will also be collaborating with Prof. Susan Gonzalez's TOPICS IN VOCAL PERFORMANCE this semester, and pianists and singers will be paired up between the two classes. There will be a final Collaborative Piano Class Recital scheduled for December (date TBA.)

Please note that this course will also fill the Ensemble Requirement for any students taking private lessons.

The course is open to all music majors whose primary instrument is piano, and to non-music major pianists by permission of the instructor. No previous experience with improvisation is necessary, but the course will serve both students with no background, as well as students who do have experience as improvisers.

The course will explore essential, applied improvisation skills that all pianists should have. In addition to performance and study of repertoire in a masterclass format, topics will include: